Abstract: A communication module communicates between the tools or control panel and the technician. A communications module connects to or by the control panel or other controller of the protection system. The communications module wirelessly communicates with a service tool, such as a personal data assistant. The technician may control the protection system with the service tool from a remote location, such as by a monitoring device or other component being tested. The communications module may be taken with the technician when testing is complete or left in the building for later use. The communications module is provided as part of the protection system or is added at a later time to an existing system.

Abstract: A communications module communicates between the tools or control panel and the technician. A communications module connects to or by the control panel or other controller of the protection system. The communications module logs or stores output data and input controls of the control panel or other controller. The data is formatted or configured into a report. The report may be output to another memory, such as memory stick, or another component, such as over a computer network. The report is sent or printed at a technician's convenience.

Abstract: A connection connects with or without wires between a control panel or other controller and a computer network. A computer on the network, such as at a different building, in a different city, or elsewhere, may obtain data from the protection system and/or control the protection system. A technician may be assisted by an expert at a remote location. A local wireless network provided by the computer network may be used for wireless communications with a portable service tool.

Abstract: A communication module communicates between the tools or control panel and the technician. A communications module connects to or by the control panel or other controller of the protection system. The communications module wirelessly communicates with a service tool, such as a personal data assistant. The technician may control the protection system with the service tool from a remote location, such as by a monitoring device or other component being tested. The communications module may be taken with the technician when testing is complete or left in the building for later use. The communications module is provided as part of the protection system or is added at a later time to an existing system.